Over the span of two decades, author, columnist, consultant and speaker Carol Bradley Bursack cared for a neighbor and six elderly family members. Her experiences inspired her to pen "Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories," a portable support group book for caregivers.

Answers

Question

Can sudden collapses be related to taking anti-depressants?


This does sound strange. Have your seen a gerontologist (doctor for seniors)? With all of that testing I assume they checked your potassium... see more

Question

My mother-in-law is living in our home, bills have doubled. What do you do when you can't afford this?


L has had a terrific experience in Florida with the HMO. This is another example that where you live makes a big difference in services... see more

Question

How can I protect my parents from my alcoholic brother?


Your brother needs to know that you will call the police if he threatens anyone again. I agree that your mom may be afraid, a but she... see more

Question

Taking care of my mother who has BPPV has taken a toll on me. How can I help myself?


Hi Savita, You're very smart and already pinpointed your own problem. It’s doing something about it that baffles you. You and your... see more

Question

How do you cope with an elderly mother's lifetime negative personality?


First of all, Debralee, you are savvy enough to know going into this that you can't make your mom happy. Therefore, hopefully, you... see more

Question

What questions should I prepare for my mother's nursing home meeting?


I agree that the sooner she leaves this place the better. Is it possible for her to go back to her independent/AL facility with her own... see more

Question

Can my mother-in-law have her dog with her in an assisted living environment?


Many assisted living facilities welcome pets. Some even have a resident pet or two. Animals tend to be good for older people. As for your... see more

Question

My sister has been doing so good. She then started saying strange things. Could she have had a stroke or is th...


She could have had a small stroke. I think she should be checked. Her behavior could stem from dementia, but this was new behavior which is... see more

Question

Trapped in the basement to avoid my abusive future father-in-law. What can I do?


Bella, you've gotten amazing advice from people who care and know a lot. Please listen. Get out, get help and keep communicating with... see more

Question

Can anyone share their experience with a parent diagnosed with degenerative aphasia?


My uncle had aphasia brought on by several major strokes. I still get teary when I think of how frustrated and angry he'd get trying to... see more

Question

What do you do when elderly parent refuses needed care or legal considerations?


When I read your experiences, support and love for other caregivers I just think what an honor it is for me to be part of this group. You... see more

Question

Is Alzheimer's considered a terminal illness?


I second Jeanne's opinion. Alzheimer's is a progressive disease that will result in death unless something else causes death first.... see more

Question

Can a nursing home force anti-depressants on a patient?


Nursing homes like to work with their contracted doctor because it's easier, but I don't think they can keep you from getting a... see more

Question

What is the next step now that mom has passed?


Deej, I'm sorry about your mom's death but happy that you realize that she's no longer suffering. That's a very healthy... see more

Question

How to get Dad and Mom in a nursing home when Dad does not want to go?


This is, unfortunately, something many adult children face. Likely, one reason your dad doesn't want to go is that he still feels he... see more

Question

I am looking for a smaller adult day care (up to 20 participants) in the Ridgewood, NY area. Any help?


I'd suggest that you go type the name of your state and the word "aging" in your browser. You should get a list of aging... see more

Question

Extra visitors. I don't want company. Any suggestions?


Ismiami said "whatever you decide is right." That's the essence of this. You work full time and this, being the age of... see more

Question

A wife verses step daughter's power of attorney for husband's social security benefits. Is what's happening le...


This sounds illegal. Generally, the wife would get half of her husband's SS when he is alive (if it's more than what she would get... see more

Question

If my caregiver is on Disability, will she disqualify herself with these payments from my Aid and Attendance?


That's a question she needs to ask her disability social worker. It would depend on why she is disabled (her physical condition) and... see more

Question

I would like to have someone go to a nursing home help my sister address her Christmas cards. Where can I look...


I can relate to this. I used to do this for my mother. It was very important to her that she send the card but she couldn't do the... see more

Subscribe to
Our Newsletter